The differences between the two cacti are subtle, but understanding them is key to their growth.
Christmas cacti have smooth, scalloped stems, while Thanksgiving cacti have pointed, pronounced stems.
The Christmas cactus has softer, rounded edgesa little less intense, you could say.
Photo:Getty Images
True to their names, Thanksgiving cactus plants bloom earlier in the season, in late fall.
Christmas cacti bring bright blooms later, during thewinter months.
Thanksgiving cacti blooms come in shades of white, pink, yellow, and orange.
Christmas cactus leaves.
You will need to encourage blooming for a Thanksgiving cactus a bit earlier than a Christmas cactus.
Water thoroughly, moistening the entire root ball.
Less is more here, Nasim says.
Thanksgiving cactus leaves.
Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Think of it as respecting their boundaries!
Light Requirements
Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti grow best with bright,indirect sunlight.
Christmas cactus flowers.
Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves of the cacti.
If your plant is indoors in winter with dry heat, spray it with mist for some moisture.
A little humidity goes a long way, Nasim says.
Thanksgiving cactus flowers.
A light misting here and there can help, especially in dry spaces.
Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti grow best in warm temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Nasim.
A little cooler temperatures at night can also help the cacti thrive, encouraging beautiful blooms.
A commercial cactus mix or regular soil with some added perlite can satisfy these holiday succulents.
These cacti do best in well-draining soil, Nasim says.
Heavy soil traps watersomething these cacti arent fans of.
You want the soil to feel light and airy.
Fertilize your Christmas cactus each month until flower buds form, usually in late summer to early fall.
After your Christmas cactus blooms, you might continue monthly fertilization.
For Thanksgiving cactus, fertilize every two weeks in the spring, summer, and early fall.
Both cacti grow best inUSDA gardening zones10 through 12.
Its all about giving them the right conditions and then letting them do their thing, undisturbed.
